As the cool air and bright colors of autumn set in, so do the sounds that make this season unique, kids laughing as they trick-or-treat, the gratifying crunch of leaves underfoot, and the crackling of a warm fire. Now imagine how much less enjoyable your fall experience will be if those sounds begin to fade away.
Hearing issues can put a damper on your autumn experiences, but fortunately, many hearing problems can be avoided or managed with simple safeguards. By taking hands-on steps to safeguard your hearing, you can ensure you don’t miss the sound of this fall’s magic.
Safeguard your hearing from loud sounds
Loud noises are one of the most prevalent causes of both temporary and permanent hearing impairment. Hearing loss can begin to occur when you’re exposed to noises above 85 decibels (dB) leading to damage to the sensitive structures of the inner ear.
Harmful noise – some common sources
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Sirens: 120 dB
One-time loud events can trigger temporary hearing loss, and while prompt medical care can help, it’s not always possible to counter the damage. More sustained exposure to high decibel levels, including regularly attending concerts or using loud headphones on a daily basis, can also result in lasting problems.
Autumn hearing protection tips
- Turn down your headphones: Reduce headphone usage and lower the volume to prevent damage over time.
- Use earplugs at events: Utilize earplugs at Halloween events or outdoor concerts to give your ears some degree of protection while still allowing you to enjoy yourself.
- Avoid sitting near loudspeakers: While it’s tempting to get close to the action, sitting right by the speakers at an event can expose you to dangerously high noise levels.
Cold weather and ear health
As temperatures fall, remember to safeguard your ears from the chill. Cold weather can have a major impact on your hearing, leaving you susceptible to ear infections. Adults are just as susceptible to ear infections as children, especially when exposed to cold and windy conditions.
Why ear infections are dangerous
Cold air can lead to discomfort, temporary hearing loss, and pain because it can cause fluid buildup and swelling of the middle ear. Untreated ear infections can cause more serious complications, impacting both your hearing and total health.
Protecting your ears when it’s cold
- Pay attention to symptoms: If you feel pain, fluid draining from the ear, or experience sudden hearing loss, talk to a healthcare provider right away for evaluation and treatment.
- Wear ear protection: Invest in earmuffs, headbands, or hats that fully cover your ears to keep them warm.
Tips for safe ear cleaning
Earwax, while frequently regarded as a nuisance, captures debris, dust, and insects, playing a vital role in your overall ear health. However, excessive earwax can become troublesome, particularly if it blocks your hearing.
You should never clean your ears with cotton swabs as they can push earwax further into the ear canal and potentially cause ear damage. Here are some better cleaning solutions:
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Loosen the earwax by using over-the-counter earwax drops or a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. After the drops have been in your ear for a few minutes, tip your head to allow for drainage.
- Consult a professional: Come in to see us if you suspect you might have a wax blockage or if you’re uncertain how to best clean your ears. We can safely remove the wax with specialized tools and prevent further problems.
Medication-induced hearing problems
Some medications can have unexpected side effects, including hearing issues. Your hearing can be impaired by certain common medications, such as diuretics, antibiotics, and large doses of aspirin.
If you observe changes in your hearing after beginning a new medication, it’s important to contact your doctor. Whether your hearing loss is related to a new medication, and if so, what to do about it, are things they will assist you with.
Take action at the first sign of hearing loss
Seasonal experiences in autumn are full of memorable sounds, and the ability to hear them clearly is something you don’t want to lose. Schedule an appointment for a consultation if you detect any changes to your hearing.
